flickr photo credit: meredith farmer
At its core is fear.
If I honestly peel back the layers, I fear that I will fail my kids.
As if I’m the one who causes their love or rejection of Him.
I battle the need to control their actions and reactions to life.
And when it seems the control is slipping away, I clamor.
But the burden deceives me. It lies with its implications.
It makes me think I hold the power to change the heart of another.
Yet He alone opens eyes.
He alone raises the dead.
He alone keeps feet from stumbling.
True, I have a call as their mama.
But it isn’t a call to control. It’s a call to honor Him.
I start there, with honor.
I dwell there, in honor — pointing to Him, depending upon Him, loving Him,
And believing Him to be the redeemer of their souls.
As I honor Him in my love for them, the burden slowly lifts.
As I trust Him to be their pursuer and protector, my soul is freed.
And fear flees.
Fill me, Lord…
How much control do you think we truly have over the hearts of others?
What promises of God bring the greatest comfort and rest when fear tempts?
I’m also spending time at the MODsquad blog today, talking about how our God can faithfully protect our children even when depravity surrounds. I would love to *see* you over there.
So needed to hear this today. Fear is absolutely the root of my need to control. And perfect LOVE casts out fear!
That’s one of my favorite verses. Thanks, friend.
Oh my I so struggle with this especially with my 20 year old daughter who is in another state. It breaks my heart to see the choices she has made and how it has had a negative effect on her life. I can not bring her back to God, but He can, so I continue to pray and believe that a day will come.
Peace
I’m the prodigal and I’m here to tell you, He can bring her back. Keep believing. Love to you, sister-friend.
I’ve battled with this myself. Still do at times, but not as much as I once did. Fear is an ugly thing, and when you allow it to settle in over you, it plants roots and doesn’t let go very easily. I like that old song that says, “…this battle is not yours, it’s the Lord’s….”
Oh that’s so true — it plants roots. It’s vital we don’t allow it to settle, bringing thoughts captive to truth. Blessings, Hope.
So simple and powerful. I had a hard day with the kids yesterday and I needed to step back from that control, when I really wanted to step into it. Great thoughts, Lara! Thank you.